Ask about asthma week launches to help prevent asthma related deaths

This week is Ask About Asthma week which is a campaign that has been developed to help raise awareness around the importance of properly managing asthma especially in children and young people.

Asthma still tragically claims young lives which could be prevented by directly addressing factors that would mean improved control and better quality of life for all children and young people with asthma.

There are four key steps to manage asthma effectively, by following these steps and proactively reviewing each child’s individual needs it could prevent serious asthma attacks that require hospital treatment. The four key steps are:

1. Get an asthma action plan in place.
2. Use the correct inhaler technique.
3. Schedule an asthma review – every year and after every attack.
4. Consider air quality and its impact on lung health.

Professor Damian Roland, System Clinical Director of Urgent and Emergency Care in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR), said: “As we begin to transition into autumn the change in weather coupled with children being back at school increases the risk of asthma flare ups for many young people. To help prevent the peak in respiratory related admissions that we usually see in the children’s emergency department during this time of year we are urging all families to follow the four steps that will help to prevent children from needing emergency hospital treatment this winter.

“Helping your child to get their inhaler technique right and having an annual asthma review to ensure their medication is working effectively are two of the most important things you can do to help your child stay well. Your GP practice can also help to make sure your child’s asthma action plan is up to date and tailored to their needs.”

“Colder weather can also see a rise in damp and mould in some homes, this along with thunderstorms and cigarette smoke are all environmental triggers that does cause asthma symptoms to become worse. By checking your home before winter fully sets in you can help to create a warm and safe environment for your child. Encourage your child to ‘ask about asthma’ to help them to manage their own health and to better help them to understand how they can keep themselves well this winter” concludes Professor Roland.

To find out more about asthma and how you can help your child to better manage their condition at home, school and in the community visit our website where we have a range of videos, information and guides about proper inhaler technique and much more. Click here for more information: https://leicesterleicestershireandrutland.icb.nhs.uk/respiratory/inhalers/